Despite not being a traditional chai, this tea has made its way into my heart in a way that I can hardly begin to describe. I’m nearing the end of the sample that I bought of this tea a while ago (having rationed it out because it’s too good and I don’t want to drink it all in one go and then not have it anymore), and I’m definitely going to have to get it again in a larger quantity soon. The fact that it is mate and pu’erh already makes it intriguing, and worth checking out for a high caffeine chai. But the taste is what makes me keep wanting to come back.

I generally doctor my chai teas with milk and sugar, and did so in this case, but I did take a few sips before adding in the extras. It was beautifully pungent and spiced, and I think it would be enjoyable in this format as well, though I do have a love for it with the added creaminess and sweetness.

The cardamom is what really seems to hit home for me with this tea. There’s also a plantiness that is unusual in a chai, but more on the side of “unusual” than “unwelcome”. The added sweetness does help round out the flavour, which even without is reminiscent of cinnamon rolls. The sweetness only adds to this comparison in my mind. The flavour tends to hit all at once in a cloud, and it’s so pleasant and enjoyable that I keep on wanting to go back and drink more. Not too rich, not too spiced. Comfortable and full.